"On June 19th, Burma's democracy leader and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Aung San Suu Kyi will celebrate her 64th birthday under continued house arrest as she awaits trial on dubious charges.
"The Burmese military junta's continued detention of Aung San Suu Kyi is deplorable and deserves the full condemnation of the international community. A clear message must be sent that Aung San Suu Kyi and all other prisoners of conscience in Burma must be released, immediately and unconditionally.
"Aung San Suu Kyi has made every conceivable sacrifice that could be asked from any leader. She has seen her supporters beaten, tortured and killed yet she has never responded to hatred and violence in kind. All she has ever asked for is peaceful dialogue and to play a role in the future of her country.
"Aung San Suu Kyi has called on individuals, organizations, and governments to support Burma's democracy movement saying 'Please use your liberty to promote ours.' She is to be commended for her courage and her leadership.
"I am proud that last year the U.S. Congress passed and President Bush signed into law a resolution awarding the Congressional Gold Medal to Aung San Suu Kyi for 'her courageous and unwavering commitment to peace, nonviolence, human rights, and democracy in Burma.'
"Let there be no doubt that we stand with Aung San Suu Kyi and the freedom-seeking people of Burma in their just cause."
Source: Office of the Speaker of the House
